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Huish Outdoors Announces the Next Chapter of Oceanic+ Oceanic+ Now Works With Your iPhone via the New Oceanic+ Dive Housing

September 3rd, 2023

Salt Lake City, UT, August 30, 2023—Last year, Oceanic partnered with Apple to take its 50 years of dive expertise and created an app that transforms an Apple Watch Ultra into a full-featured dive computer. This innovative partnership sparked widespread interest in scuba diving worldwide and fueled the growth of the sport.

Today the next chapter of Oceanic+ begins with the launch of the new Oceanic+ Dive Housing, available at local retailers in late September, or now for pre-order here. The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is the first of its kind to take full advantage of your iPhone underwater for the best in underwater photography, dive computers, and sharing capabilities so now anyone can share their underwater adventures and stories.

“Oceanic+ has already transformed the way we dive,” said Mike Huish, CEO of Huish Outdoors. “With the new Oceanic+ Dive Housing, it will now change the way we will share our adventures.”

Designed for rugged underwater use, the Oceanic+ Dive Housing is depth rated to 60 meters (196 feet). It features an automatic vacuum pump for air removal along with universal mounting points to accommodate various underwater photo accessories.

The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is equipped with a depth and temperature sensor to enable the Oceanic+ app to transform the diver’s iPhone into a fully functional dive computer. It works with iPhones starting from SE 2nd generation to the latest version using iOS16 and above. Its battery provides a full week of diving and is fully rechargeable in 45 minutes with a standard USB-C cable.

The Oceanic+ app is the heart of the ecosystem for diving with Apple Watch Ultra and iPhone using the Oceanic+ Dive Housing. The new capabilities of the Oceanic+ app allow divers to use both the Apple Watch Ultra and iPhone with Oceanic+ Dive Housing concurrently on the same subscription, giving them the ability to run both dive computers independently at the same time.

The combination of the Oceanic+ App and Dive Housing is powerful in defining how divers will tell their stories about their dive adventures. The logbook now features a carousel of pictures and videos taken during the dive and showcases at what depth and time the media was recorded. For sharing, the diver can overlay the dive profile on top of the photo to tell a more interesting story for their family and friends to enjoy.

“Oceanic+ continues to revolutionize the dive experience, offering underwater capabilities for iPhone. Now divers can save pictures and videos directly to their logbook and easily share their stories with family and friends,” says Nick Hollis, Oceanic Brand Manager.

The cutting-edge Oceanic+ app empowers photographers to capture media files in both compressed and RAW formats, each offering unique benefits to cater to diverse preferences and needs.

“The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is a game-changer for underwater photography enthusiasts. Whether divers prioritize the convenience of automatic color correction or the creative control of RAW, the Oceanic+ app and Oceanic+ Dive Housing have them covered,” says Andrea Silvestri, VP of Product Development and Design at Huish Outdoors.

The Oceanic+ Dive Housing works in connection with the Oceanic+ app. The app is subscription-based and includes a free version and a paid subscription for more advanced photo and dive computer features. The Oceanic+ app can be downloaded here.

Posted in Maritime, Press Release | Comments Off on Huish Outdoors Announces the Next Chapter of Oceanic+ Oceanic+ Now Works With Your iPhone via the New Oceanic+ Dive Housing

Civilian Marksmanship Premier Shooting Expo – October 18th at Talladega Marksmanship Park

September 3rd, 2023

The Civilian Marksmanship Premier shooting expo will be held October 18th at the Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama. It’s open to the public and is a hands-on event where visitors will have the opportunity to test ammo, firearms and accessories on their, state of the art, technologically-advanced outdoor range.

Tickets on Sale NOW!
$75 (if purchased before September 1, 2023) / $100 (after September 1, 2023

All attendees will receive a free range pass ($90 value) as well as a $200 off certificate for a pair of Hunters HD Gold glasses.

Visit CMP.org for more information.

Posted in Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Civilian Marksmanship Premier Shooting Expo – October 18th at Talladega Marksmanship Park

DAF Selects JetZero to Develop Blended Wing Body Aircraft Prototype

September 3rd, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force selected JetZero for the next phase of a blended wing body prototype aircraft project Aug. 16.

The effort aims to mature BWB technology and demonstrate its capabilities, giving the department and commercial industry more options for future air platforms.

With a design that differs from a traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, the BWB blends the aircraft body into its high-aspect-ratio wing, decreasing aerodynamic drag by at least 30% and providing additional lift. This increased efficiency will enable extended range, more loiter time, and increased payload delivery efficiencies, capabilities that are vital to mitigating logistics risks.

“Blended wing body aircraft have the potential to significantly reduce fuel demand and increase global reach,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Moving forces and cargo quickly, efficiently, and over long distance is a critical capability to enable national security strategy.”

Several military transport configurations are possible with the BWB. Together, these aircraft types account for approximately 60% of the Air Force’s total annual jet fuel consumption.

As outlined in the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, the Department of Defense plans to invest $235 million over the next four years to fast-track the development of this transformational dual-use technology, with additional private investment expected. The effort is the result of collaboration between the Department of the Air Force, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Defense Innovation Unit, with assistance from the DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital.

“It’s been a little over a hundred years since a few brave Airmen took to the skies and proved the first aerial refueling capability, extending the global reach of our Air Force. This announcement marks another game-changing milestone for the Air Force in our efforts to maintain the advantage of airpower effectiveness against any future competitors,” said Dr. Ravi Chaudhary, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment. A former C-17 Globemaster III pilot and engineer, Chaudhary is leading efforts to ensure efficiencies in operational energy to build greater agility for theater commanders.

While the BWB concept has been around for decades, more recent technology advancements in structural design, materials technology, manufacturing, and other areas have made large-scale production achievable.

The commercial industry, including passenger airlines and air freight companies, stand to benefit from development of this technology as well, increasing available cabin or cargo space while decreasing operational fuel costs.

The Air Force Operational Energy Office expects completion of initial flight testing as early as 2027.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Contracts, Guest Post | Comments Off on DAF Selects JetZero to Develop Blended Wing Body Aircraft Prototype

Grayman & Company – Polo Shirt

September 2nd, 2023

When I purchased my Polo Shirt a few years ago from Grayman & Co, I looked at it as more of a business casual item than something greenside. But then I ran across this photo and realized, why the heck not?

Granted, it’s not cheap, but it is very well made, from 100% Merino Wool. And for the guys who get triggered by this, it’s made in Italy (egad!).

In addition to being very comfortable, the open weave leaves it quite breathable, making it a great four season shirt.

As for operational features, the Polo incorporates slim wire-management loops, serged into the side-seams and shoulder. Additionally, webbing loops for microphone clips are sewn into the placket and under the collar flaps and the collar band features a wire pass-through channel.

Offered in Light Grey, Taupe (which I bought to blend with a wider variety of pants and jackets), Green, Very Dark Green, Dark Grey, and Very Dark Blue.

Sizing is XS -XXL in short, regular, and long lengths.

grayman.co/polo

Posted in Clothing, Grey Man | 11 Comments »

100 Year Old WWII Veteran Awarded Green Beret and SF Tab

September 2nd, 2023

Celebrate the newest member of the Special Forces Regiment!

At the incredible age of 100, Ellsworth “Al” Johnson was awarded the Special Forces Tab and coveted Green Beret tomorrow. He just might be the last living member of the Office of Strategic Services Operational Group (OSSOG) and likely the last WWII veteran to get his SF tab!

On August 14th, 1944, Mr. Johnson bravely jumped into France as a member of OG PATRICK. His remarkable efforts helped prevent the destruction of the Eguzon Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Europe. On July 27th, 1945, Mr. Johnson jumped with the 2nd Chinese Commando into an occupied China as part of the BLUEBERRY mission, leaving an incredible mark in history. Mr. Johnson was also sent to China and trained Chinese Commandos, helping establish their first airborne capability.

In case you didn’t know, Operational Groups (OG)are the original model for the Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA). The multi-faceted mission of the Operational Groups was to organize, train, and equip local resistance organizations, and to conduct ‘hit and run’ missions against enemy-controlled roads, railways, and strong points, or to prevent their destruction by retreating enemy forces during WWII. Most members of OG were Airborne and language qualified.

To honor Ellsworth’s incredible contributions and heroism, the USASOC Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen Patrick Roberson and the 1st Special Forces Command – Airborne Brig. Gen. Lawrence Gil Ferguson presented Mr. Johnson with a SF Tab on 1 September, 2023, officially recognizing him as a Green Beret.

Posted in Guest Post, History, SOF | 6 Comments »

SETAF-AF Welcomes New Civil Affairs Battalion

September 2nd, 2023

VICENZA, Italy – The U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion conducted a change of responsibility during a ceremony Aug. 25, 2023, at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy.

During the ceremony, the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, from Knoxville, TN, assumed responsibility as the SETAF-AF CA Battalion from the outgoing 450th Civil Affairs Battalion.

“Our Civil Affairs Battalion provides us a critical capability,” said Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund, SETAF-AF commanding general. “They help us understand the concerns and perspectives of the civilian populations in the countries in which we partner and help to meet their needs. They help our African partners build their own capacity to increase civil-military engagement and build trust between the military and those they protect.”

SETAF-AF coordinates all U.S. Army activities in Africa in support of U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

The U.S. Army Reserve, Maryland-based battalion worked hand-in-hand with several African partners including Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Malawi, Liberia, Morocco, Djibouti, Kenya, Ghana, and Tunisia during their nine-month deployment to the U.S. Africa Command Area of Responsibility. Across the continent, the battalion played a vital role in fostering partnerships between the U.S. Army, host nation forces and their respective public.

Army Civil Affairs Soldiers work closely in partnership with other government agencies or the militaries of allied nations.

“I would like to thank all of our African Partners and the Soldiers of SETAF-AF for laying a solid foundation of operations for us,” said 540th Civil Affairs Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Kevin. Martin. “The past nine months has been an incredible experience, and we wouldn’t endeavor to continue forward with the mission, jointly with all partners for success.”

The incoming civil affairs battalion assumes responsibility for all Army civil affairs duties within the African continent supporting the SETAF-AF mission.

“I would like to thank the outgoing Civil Affairs Battalion for laying a solid foundation of operations for us and we will endeavor to continue forward with the mission, jointly with all partners for success,” said Lt. Col. James Favuzzi, the commander of 489th Civil Affairs Battalion.

Over the next nine months, the battalion will provide approximately 90 Soldiers, 10 civil affairs teams, and one medical functional specialist team to conduct engagements across Africa in support of SETAF-AF.

“We receive tremendous support to our mission from the U.S. Army Reserve, evidenced by the work and accomplishments of the 540th,” said Wasmund. “We’re confident that the new team from the 489th will build upon that important work in the months ahead.”

By Billy Lacroix

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on SETAF-AF Welcomes New Civil Affairs Battalion

Rheinmetall and WilNor Governmental Services, Together with Experienced Norwegian and German Companies, Will Collaborate to Remove Unexploded Ordnance in German Waters

September 1st, 2023

By combining maritime and technical expertise, the partners will answer the request for quote issued by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, for ordnance removal.

With reference to an earlier statement by German Naval Yards, Rheinmetall bring together partners to answer the request for quote (RFQ) issued by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV). Complimenting experience and infrastructure make for a strong constellation between Rheinmetall, WilNor Governmental Services, and an extended group of companies. Together, the constellation brings extensive experience and technology to remove unexploded ordnance safely and responsibly.

Rheinmetall has extensive and long-standing expertise in this domain, having planned and implemented concepts and facilities for ammunition disposal for many years.¬
WilNor Governmental Services, a subsidiary company of the Wilhelmsen group, brings the logistics and maritime operations element. The Wilhelmsen group, based in Norway, is the world’s largest maritime network, with activities concentrated on providing products and services to the maritime industry, offshore logistics and technology, renewable energy, ship management, and complex logistical solutions for operating under difficult offshore conditions.

The partners plan to jointly develop and operate an innovative offshore platform for ammunition disposal. Contaminated sites will be cleaned up in a safe and responsible manner, with ammunition disposal taking place offshore at the innovative offshore platform, minimising the danger to marine life and the natural environment.

Future ocean plans
Plans for future offshore wind turbine parks in the same waters, demands a safe seabed. Enabling that reality requires responsible and safe removal of millions of tons of unexploded ordnance first. “We want to assure a cleaner and healthier marine environment. Unexploded ordnance and substances can be unstable and dangerous, and we will avoid the risk of transporting these. It is therefore important that we can safely and responsibly recover unexploded ordnance and render it harmless on the spot. We also aim to minimise the impact on the underwater world and its inhabitants, and prevent future hazards,” says Dr. Deniz Akitürk, managing director of Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH. “Time is of the essence because the condition of the ammunition is deteriorating. Effects on the environment are already visible.”

The constellation of companies is ready to build a reliable unexploded ordnance value chain and look for quick implementation to start surveys and preparations early in 2024. Once all preparation and necessary regulatory processes are completed, the constellation is ready to construct the innovative offshore platform.
The constellation companies are able to expand from pilot to a full-scale industrial level value chain that can handle more efficient multiple platforms in several operational areas simultaneously.

Posted in EOD, International, Maritime, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall and WilNor Governmental Services, Together with Experienced Norwegian and German Companies, Will Collaborate to Remove Unexploded Ordnance in German Waters

Forward Controls x Ghostmen Designs ALS Spring Cap

September 1st, 2023

Forward Controls and Ghostmen Designs are proud to announce the release of their new collab product, the ASC (ALS Spring Cap). This is a direct replacement for the plastic spring cap on Safariland’s 6354RDS, 6390RDS, 6360RDS, 7390RDS, and 7360RDS. The ASC is a worthy addition to the already impressive strength of Safariland’s lines of duty RDS holsters.

Machined from solid 6061 aluminum blocks and Type III anodized in black, ODG, or FDE, the ASC is strong and durable by virtue of its aluminum billet construction, with a wall that is 57% thicker. Please note that the ASC does not come with the ALS spring and mounting screw. To install the ASC, unscrew the ALS cap retaining screw, remove the factory plastic spring cap, remove the ALS spring, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to reinstall the spring in the ASC, and then reinstall the ALS cap retaining screw.

Designed and made for LE and MIL customers, the ASC stays discreet by being unadorned with any logos or engravings. As always, proudly designed and manufactured in the USA.

If you have not already heard of their flagship product, Ghostmen Designs most known for their “Portal”. Designed to allow dirt, brass, gravel, and other debris to fall out through the bottom of your Safariland holster, the Portal ensures that you can successfully re-holster your weapon and not damage it.

After seeing many agencies remove the light plug to allow debris to fall through, Ghostmen Designs realized that doing so resulted in zero protection for the weapon light and weakened the structural integrity of the holster.

The Portal is machined from T6 6061 Aluminum, is Mil-Spec anodized, and is proudly made in the USA.For more information about ASC and the Portal, please visit FCDs and Ghostmen Designs websites.

www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/asc-als-spring-cap

ghostmendesigns.com/product/the-asc

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on Forward Controls x Ghostmen Designs ALS Spring Cap